Printable Book Club Questions for Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy

The story is set in a world similar to others, but more ravaged by climate change. Is this a look into our potential future, or do you feel the world-building is more of a separate reality from ours?
Why was Shearwater chosen to hold the world’s largest seed bank?
Dominic’s wife, Claire, died in childbirth, which devastated his family. Let’s discuss why Dominic took his family to Shearwater after her tragic passing.
When we read Dominic’s perspective, we learn that he’s hallucinating that Claire is speaking to him. Was this a form of trauma, and not fully processing her passing?
Eventually, Dominic and his family are the only ones left on Shearwater. Until Rowen washes up on shore one fateful day. What were your thoughts on Rowen’s first interactions with the family?
Everyone is holding secrets, which results in consequences later. Why didn’t Dominic come forward with the truth about Rowen’s husband, Hank Jones? How might that have changed what unfolded in the story?
When did Dominic and Rowen start to bond and form a connection?
Did their romance ring true and make sense to you? Or were you not sold by it?
We learn that despite Rowen taking a huge risk coming to the island, her marriage to Hank was unhappy. Their house was destroyed in a fire, and while Hank wanted children, Rowen didn’t. This caused Hank to leave her behind to work as a researcher on Shearwater. Why did Rowen come to the island, despite their marriage disputes?
There’s quite a bit of tragedy on the island, such as the deaths of Alex, Tom, and Naija. How did this showcase how dangerous this island is?
Why did Fen choose to stay closer to the animals of the island rather than with her family?
Hank had sent emails to Rowen claiming he was in danger on the island. We eventually find out that he groomed Dominic’s daughter, Fen. Did Hank experience a mental breakdown being on the island, or was the author trying to hint at something else at play with him? What was your take on this character?
Rowen’s backstory includes the fact that she was in charge of her younger siblings, and her youngest brother died in a drowning accident, which Rowen felt was her fault. This is one reason she didn’t want to have children of her own. But she does find herself bonding with the Salt children. How did being around the Salt children help Rowen put her guard down?
Dominic and Rowen chose each other, and plan to all leave the island together. However, the discovery of Hank and Orly’s attempt to rescue him changes everything. What were your thoughts on the climax and Rowen sacrificing herself to save Orly?
What happens next for the Salt family?